Kear: Let's rise to the occasion

Kear: Let's rise to the occasion of Challenge Cup clash with Halifax

HEAD coach John Kear has called on his players to relish the occasion of a Challenge Cup quarter-final – insisting his players have a chance to make history having added some ‘magic’ back into the competition.

Dramatic derby wins over Keighley Cougars, Featherstone Rovers and Leeds Rhinos have left Kear’s side just two wins away from a place at Wembley.

In a mouth-watering clash tomorrow, however, they renew rivalries with Halifax for the fourth time in 2019.

Simon Grix’s side prevailed last time out, leaving Kear under no illusions the size of the task at hand – live on BBC Two this weekend.

Kear said: “We know a lot about them and we know they are a very good team and we respect them as a rugby league team and I think they respect us as well.

“We have to come ready to play, take on board the game plan we have put in place and execute it with an energy and desire that matches the occasion.

“Us and Halifax have been great for the cup – they knocked out London and we knocked out Leeds so we have added some magic back into the competition.

“There is a massive prize at the end of the game – a place in the semi-finals and the chance to make history.

“That is why we need to make sure we play well – we need to make sure the occasion inspires us.”

More than 10,000 supporters packed out Odsal Stadium for the memorable sixth round defeat of Leeds Rhinos as the Bulls hosted the biggest crowd of the round for four years.

Another big crowd is expected this weekend as two familiar foes go head-to-head once more.

Kear admits home advantage is massive – calling on the Bradford faithful to once again ‘inspire’ the side to a semi-final berth.

He added: “At some stage we will be under the cosh, that is what happens when you play good teams and we will require that support to inspire us.

“I would appeal to everyone to get down to Odsal again, get on the terraces and get your singing voices out.”

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